Taking Care Of People in West Virginia :: Local News and Newspapers

: Taking Care Of People in West Virginia

October 17, 2008 by Brad
Filed under: Health and Medicine

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Taking Care of People - The Intelligencer / Wheeling News-Register

Editor, News-Register:

Fifty-four million Americans - roughly one in six - personally experience some form of disability and as the war continues the number of the disabled increases. These are people who want to live the American dream but live every day with some form of health issue that makes their life more difficult than the average American. Every day is filled with hard work and road blocks to achieve what others take for granted. Disabled working-age Americans are three times more likely to live below the poverty line.

Seventeen years after Congress enacted the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), many of our fellow Americans with disabilities still do not have an equal opportunity to fulfill the American dream.

As the parent of an intelligent, articulate child who is in a wheelchair most days, I can tell you it is very difficult. If you can just walk into a building without planning “how” to get in, you are very fortunate. Before my daughter became ill I would have told you that all the buildings are handicap accessible - now I will tell you many of them are not. Before, I would have said people will help - now I have found many people do not help. It’s very common for people to watch us struggle in public without ever asking if they can do anything to assist.

All these societal issues, coupled with the current lack of social services can be overwhelming. While working on the Obama campaign I have talked to many people who can not get the medication and medical equipment they need to take care of themselves. How is it that disabled Americans cannot get wheelchairs and shower seats? And what about our young? How will they get medical insurance when they are deemed to have pre-existing medical conditions?

Sen. Obama’s plan for disabled Americans includes four parts that will empower the disabled. His plan will: 1. Provide Americans with disabilities the educational opportunities they need to succeed. 2. End discrimination and promote equal opportunity. 3. Increase the employment rate of workers with disabilities. 4. Support independent, community-based living for Americans with disabilities. His full plan is outlined on www.barackobama.com.

Anyone can have an accident or a sudden medical condition. We have to change the system so that EVERYONE has access to the American dream! Sen. Obama has a plan that includes all of “us.” Not just those of us who can afford it.

I urge all disabled Americans, caregivers and friends of disabled Americans to unite to elect officials who will support help for those who need it. We are strong people, but together we are unbeatable! YOU ARE IMPORTANT! Vote for Barack Obama for president and let them know you want a government that takes care of its people!

Bobbi Taylor

Wheeling